New York, NY, February 8, 2005 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) called today's meeting at Sharm-el-Sheikh between the Israeli Prime Minister and the President of the Palestinian Authority "an important step forward from violence to peace" and hoped that this meeting will prove to be an historic turning point in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict. 

"The words expressed by Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and President Mahmoud Abbas offer real possibilities for change in the region, and is an important step forward from violence to peace," said Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director.  "The proof will ultimately rest on actions; particularly on the ability of the Palestinian President to bring an end to terror. If that happens, we may look at this day as a historic turning point in the decades old Israeli-Palestinian conflict," Mr. Foxman added.

ADL also commended Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak for hosting this meeting and King Abdullah of Jordan for his presence and support.

The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world's leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry.